Effects of an app-based sensorimotor training in promoting neuroplasticity and neuropsychological functioning in frailty: A randomized controlled trial

• Published in: Archives of gerontology and geriatrics 2023-12, Vol.115, p.105202-105202, Article 105202
• Main Authors: Beier, Florian, Löffler, Martin, Nees, Frauke, Bekrater-Bodmann, Robin, Silvoni, Stefano, Desch, Simon, Löffler, Annette, Hausner, Lucrezia, Frölich, Lutz, Flor, Herta
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aging; Frailty; Neuroplasticity; Sensorimotor functioning; Training app
• ISSN: 0167-4943; 1872-6976
• DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2023.105202

•Age-related brain alterations may play a major role in frailty.•A neuroplasticity-based sensorimotor training could be beneficial in counteracting frailty and bodily pain.•Possible mechanisms of training-induced neuroplasticity in frailty need to be further investigated. Loss of sensorimotor stimulation and maladaptive plastic changes of the brain may play a major role in problematic aging phenomena such as frailty. However, it is not clear if interventions specifically targeting neuroplasticity can reverse or slow the development of frailty. We compared the effect of a tablet-based neuroplasticity-oriented sensorimotor training (experimental group, EG) and a tablet-based relaxation training (control group, CG) on frailty and sensorimotor brain function. Interventions consisted of daily 30 min sessions distributed over 90 days. Assessments took place at baseline, after 60 days, and after 90 days. A total of N = 48 frail older adults (EG: n = 24; CG: n = 24) were assigned to the two groups and reassessed after 60 days. Primary outcomes included frailty phenotype (FP) and frailty index (FI). Sensorimotor brain activity was evaluated using functional magnetic resonance imaging and single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation. After 60 days of training, both groups showed a reduction in the number of FP criteria (p